New Zealand pacer Kyle Jamieson enjoyed a dream Test debut as he got the prized wicket of India captain Virat Kohli in Wellington on Friday.
Jamieson was not even in line to make his Test debut before left-arm quick Neil Wagner took personal leave as he was about to become a father. The tall quick made a big impression on a green surface in Wellington to reduce the Indians to 122-5 on a rain-affected day.
The 6'8" Jamieson took 3-38 from 14 overs at the Basin Reserve as India lost their way before tea.
New Zealand were hoping to reunite experienced pace trio of Trent Boult, Tim Southee and Wagner for the two-Test series. But Wagner's late withdrawal meant a Test debut for Jamieson, who had earlier impressed during the ODI series win over India where he delivered with bat and ball.
He first got the wicket of Cheteshwar Pujara by getting the ball to jump off a length and take the edge to wicketkeeper BJ Watling.
Next up was the big wicket as he drew Kohli into a drive and got the edge to Ross Taylor, who took the catch in his 100th Test.
"It has been a pretty surreal last couple of weeks," said Jamieson, who also made his ODI debut in the preceding series.
"For me Test cricket has always been the pinnacle and there were a few emotions when we did the cap presentation last night (Thursday)."
Despite being on his Test debut, Jamieson said he did not have any nerves since he was given the chance to bowl downwind.
"He's a pretty good batter and such a key to their batting lineup," Jamieson said. "To get him early was a massive thing for us as a group ... and it was pretty special."
